Friends of Farm Bureau

The “Friend of Farm Bureau” award is given at the end of each Congress to those members of Congress who were nominated by their respective state Farm Bureaus and approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors.

This award is based upon voting records on AFBF’s priority issues established by the Board of Directors, number of bills that a member has sponsored and co-sponsored, specific leadership role for Farm Bureau on priority issues, and how accessible and responsive that member is to Farm Bureau members and leaders. In addition, the state Farm Bureau lists any other specific reasons why that member should receive this award.

This year, Washington Farm Bureau recognized four congressional leaders who have supported Washington’s agricultural industry on the national level. This year’s recipients of the Friends of Farm Bureau award are Dan Newhouse, Dave Reichert, Cathy McMorris-Rogers and Jaime Herrera Beutler.

Congressman Dan Newhouse

Dan Newhouse is from Sunnyside, Wash., and serves Washington’s 4th District in Congress. A third-generation Yakima Valley farmer, Dan brings real-world experience to Congress as a businessman and former state legislator ready to work hard in support of conservative solutions that encourage job creation and economic opportunity in Central Washington.

“It feels like I’m coming home when I’m with Farm Bureau,” Newhouse said. “I feel so honored to be recognized by my Farm Bureau family.”

Congressman Dave Reichert

Dave Reichert hails from Auburn, Wash., and represents the 8th Congressional District. Reichert served as president of the Washington State Sheriffs’ Association and an executive board member of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. One of Reichert’s appointments is to the Trade subcommittee, where he works to support the agricultural industry.

“It is nice to be recognized for our efforts,” Reichert said. “[Farm Bureau] is a great organization and is full of great people.”

Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rogers

Cathy McMorris Rogers is a native of Spokane, Wash., and represents Washington’s 5thLegislative District. As Chair of the House Republican Conference, she is the fourth highest-ranking Republican in the House and the highest ranking woman in Congress. As someone who grew up on a farm, worked at her family’s small business, and later became a wife and mom of three, Cathy has lived the American Dream.

Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler

Jaime Herrera Beutler is from Battle Ground, Wash., and serves the 3rd Congressional District. Growing up, Jaime participated in 4-H and basketball. She has a deep appreciation for what makes Southwest Washington special.

“We should be passing laws that protect both the consumer and the farmer who grows it,” Herrera Beutler said. “Farmers are the backbone of this country and need to be considered when making laws.”